A cycling event held at Sinhagad fort on Sunday, October 25, has sparked criticism after videos of participants riding down the historic stone steps went viral on social media, raising concerns over how permissions are obtained by organisers and how sporting activities at heritage sites are regulated.
The archaeology department, meanwhile, has confirmed that it did not grant permission for the event. However, videos of participants cycling down the fort steps raised questions whether the activity extended beyond the area for which permission was granted. No permission was issued for the fort area, particularly the steps, as this part falls under the archaeology department. If at all, the clarifications have brought to the fore the nature of coordination between the two departments. However, even for such a noble cause, they require several permissions from the authorities. How, then, are such events being organised at the fort? How can authorities such as the forest department and archaeology department ignore this issue? “Forts are sacred places for many of us who believe in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s bravery.
Reportedly, the private group organising the cycling event had approached the forest department stating that more than 20 contestants from other countries would be participating in the race as part of an initiative to promote cycling culture.
Range forest officer Manoj Barbole said, “The forest department issued permission for the event, but it was limited to the hill area and trekking route. Vilas Wahane, assistant director, Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Maharashtra, said, “There was no permission granted by the archaeology department for the said event. Nishant Mavale, a resident, said, “There are many organisations that work towards the conservation and cleanliness of the fort at their own expense. Another resident, Prashant Dhane, said that forts hold deep historical and emotional significance for people who revere Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his legacy. Such events should not be held at the fort premises,” Dhane said.
Sinhagad fort, on the outskirts of Pune, is a historically significant site associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha rule; and attracts trekkers, tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
The incident has renewed concerns over the regulation of recreational and sporting activities at heritage sites where administrative responsibilities are divided between government departments. Residents have called for better coordination between departments, clearer guidelines for sporting events at historical sites, and stricter monitoring to ensure that organisers adhere to permissions granted to them.
